Various skin neoplasms are very common. In the structure of primary visits to polyclinic dermatologists, they account for 20-25% of all dermatological diseases. More and more use in the practice of dermatologists and cosmetologists is found in the hardware room, which makes it possible to diagnose the type and nature of the disease with high reliability.

Skin neoplasms (neoplastic formations, tumors) represent a limited quantitative growth or increase in the size of qualitatively changed pathological cells included in the skin structures.

Classification of neoplasms

In most cases, neoplastic lesions are harmless to health and pose a predominantly cosmetic problem. At the same time, benign and malignant types of pathological elements are often outwardly similar to each other. They can arise primarily, transform from cells of benign tumors, or arise in the place of the latter.

Depending on the structure and nature of growth, all types of neoplasms on the skin are combined into four large groups:

1. Benign.
2. Malignant.
3. Borderline, or precancerous conditions.
4. Tumor-like formations, or developmental defects.

Benign skin neoplasms

They are characterized by slow growth, during which their cellular elements remain within the tumor without growing into adjacent tissues. The neoplasm, evenly increasing, pushes and squeezes healthy tissues, as a result of which the latter, as it were, play the role of a capsule. Although benign tumors are atypical, there is no metastasis of their cells.

The most common neoplastic formations are:

• lipoma;
• atheroma;
• hemangioma and lymphangioma;
• fibroma and neurofibroma;
• nevus (birthmark).

Under the influence of unfavorable external or internal stimuli, they (especially a nevus) can transform into malignant tumors.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin

Unlike benign, they have rapid cell division, infiltrating (invasive) growth of immature atypical cells. First, they spread along the directions of minimum resistance, that is, along the intercellular spaces, along the surface of nerves, blood and lymphatic vessels, and membrane septa.

After that, the cell complexes destroy obstacles and grow into the surrounding tissues and blood vessels, destroying them in the process of their growth. Once in the blood stream, malignant tumor cells spread to nearby and distant tissues and organs, forming metastases. Tumor growth can be exophytic (outward, to the surface) and endophytic (into the underlying skin layers, into muscles, etc.).

Malignant dermatological neoplasms include:

• basal cell carcinoma, or basalioma;
• squamous cell carcinoma of the skin;
• melanoma that occurs against the background of nevi with a "borderline" component;
• liposarcoma and fibrosarcoma;
• angiosarcoma (Kaposi's sarcoma);
• Paget's breast cancer (rare in young people).

In the general structure of cancers, skin localization is about 30%. Such a high frequency, in comparison with other localizations of cancer, is explained by:

- significant spread of oncogenic viruses;

- a decrease in the level of the body's immune defense in many people;

- the influence of a large number of chemical and other carcinogenic components in food and air, household products;

- an increase in the general radioactive background;

- excessive exposure ultraviolet rays to many sunbathers.

Basal cell carcinoma accounts for 45 to 90% of all malignant skin tumors. Its annual growth is on average from 3 to 10%.

Another example is melanoma, which, although it makes up less than 5% of all skin cancers, is more common in young people (under 30), especially among women. The lifetime risk of developing it for people with white skin is 2%. It increases with age and reaches its maximum after 80 years. Melanoma is considered the most dangerous species due to its rapid growth and high mortality. Of all other skin cancers, it accounts for the highest mortality rate.

Borderline tumors, or precancerous conditions

Skin neoplasms that, with a statistically predictable frequency, under certain conditions or over time, are prone to cancerous transformation. These include:

• senile keratosis;
• borderline pigmented nevus;
• cutaneous horn;
• pigmented xeroderma;
• erythroplasia, or Keir's disease, always turning into squamous cell skin cancer;
• Bowen's disease, which transforms into metastatic cancer without treatment.

Tumor-like formations

They are congenital in nature and can manifest themselves at different age periods. They are a pathological mixture of separate normal components that make up the structure of an organ. The increase in the size of these formations is not associated with a real atypical growth of the main functional elements, but with sclerotic transformation in the stroma (supporting structures), the occurrence of edema and circulatory disorders, the accumulation of glandular secretions, etc. Their tissue is morphologically identical to normal, but does not have functionality. Tumor-like formations, which include mainly epidermal melanocytic nevi and nevi of the sebaceous glands, can be combined with true tumors or serve as a background for the latter.

A number of tumors develop mainly towards the end of middle age and in old age. These include the following age-related neoplasms skin like:

1. Adenomas of the sebaceous glands, which are usually located on the face or back. These are dense formations with a smooth surface up to 10 mm, most often on a stem.
2. Soft fibroma, malignant transformation for which is uncharacteristic. It appears in old age, usually in the axillary and groin areas, on the neck and back of the chest.
3. Senile keratosis, which occurs mainly after 50 years, less often - after 40 years. It represents dense layers of keratinized epithelium of brown or grayish color in the form of crusts with flat scales. After their mechanical rejection, a rough surface remains, sometimes blood drops "protrude". The main localization sites are the anterior and posterior surfaces of the chest, cheeks and forehead, and the skin of the temporal regions. Senile keratosis is often prone to degeneration into squamous cell skin cancer. It must be differentiated from melanoma.
4. Keratoacanthoma, the differential diagnosis of which with squamous cell carcinoma presents certain difficulties. The tumor-like formation is raised above the skin surface and has a crater-like depression in the center, which is filled with a horny mass. Keratoacanthoma occurs after 50 years of age on open parts of the body and most often goes away on its own with the formation of a scar, but sometimes it can degenerate into cancer.
5. Cutaneous horn - develops on the face or exposed areas of the body that are subject to frequent friction. It occurs after the age of 60-70 years. The tumor has the form of a dense cone of yellow, pink, brownish or gray color. It is prone to malignancy or may be an early stage squamous cell carcinoma.
6. Paget's cancer - usually localized in the nipple-areola zone, sometimes with the formation of a node around it. The tumor less often affects the skin of the external genital organs of a woman, the penis and the skin of the perineum. In women it can appear after 60, and in men after 70 years and is much more aggressive. The disease can manifest itself in three forms: pink papular rashes with small scales; a small rash on an ulcerating surface and a wet nipple; small crusts on the skin and weeping under them like eczema.

Treatment

Removal of benign formations and skin malformations is carried out mainly for cosmetic purposes or when they are subject to constant mechanical irritation or damage in certain areas of the skin. In other cases, only periodic monitoring of them is possible to prevent malignant transformation and growth.

Treatment of tumors of other types consists in their removal by thermal (cryodestruction), chemical (liquid nitrogen), pharmacological, surgical methods or by radiation exposure if other methods cannot be used. The most effective and reliable is the surgical removal of skin lesions by simple excision, radio wave or laser method.

Traditional surgical excision with a scalpel makes it possible to carry out histological control of the remote area in order to exclude the presence of malignant cells. The disadvantages are difficult visual control due to bleeding, damage to tissues adjacent to the tumor, and the possibility of introducing pathologically altered tumor cells into neighboring zones. In addition, excision with a scalpel often leaves behind an aesthetic defect in the form of a rough scar.

In contrast, laser removal of skin neoplasms is carried out without direct contact with tissues. It is characterized by high accuracy, absence of bleeding and rough postoperative scars, and also excludes the introduction of pathological cells into the tissue bordering on the tumor. However, the main disadvantage of laser removal is the destruction of the cells of the entire tumor, and therefore it is impossible to carry out its further histological examination.

The method of removing a pathological skin area using a radio wave knife of the "Surgitron" apparatus has all the advantages of a laser operation. At the same time, this method, possessing high accuracy and narrow directivity of the radio wave beam, allows you to keep the tumor itself intact for histological examination.

Significance of differential diagnosis

All benign and borderline skin neoplasms are dynamically developing structures, some of which can undergo malignant transformation. In addition, on simple visual inspection, some of the different types of elements have significant similarities with each other and with malignant species.

This explains the importance of instrumental screening of neoplasms using dermatoscopes. Digital epiluminescence dermatoscopy, which has a sensitivity of up to 95% and a specificity of up to 79-93.5%, in combination with an automatic analysis using computer software, allows you to completely exclude subjective assessment.

The ability to carry out objective differential diagnostics with a high degree of reliability makes it possible to identify precancerous and malignant neoplasms on early stages their development and choose the appropriate treatment method.

Benign skin neoplasms are pathological changes in the size and number of cells, which leads to overgrowth of the dermis and the appearance of skin growth. The pathology that has arisen on human skin can have a different structure, but the general mechanism is the rapid multiplication of cells. The ICD-10 code classifies benign formations as D10 or D36.

The second name for skin formations is neoplasia, or tumor. Pathology rarely transforms into malignant neoplasms and only as a result of chemical or physical exposure to external factors.

Benign skin lesions show distinctive features by which it is possible to determine their nature. The dermatologist identifies pathology according to the criteria:

• gradual increase;
• delayed development;
• education does not grow into nearby tissues and organs;
• the presence of a capsule that expands and puts pressure on adjacent organs.

This pathology does not pose a threat to the patient's life, but it brings tangible discomfort, increasing to an impressive size. Timely removal with an increase in the neoplasm will exclude the possibility of tumor metastasis.

Varieties of skin formations

Benign formations are of two types: congenital and acquired. Congenital formations are considered warts and moles. different forms and flowers. Superficial and subcutaneous formations resulting from metabolic dysfunction, decreased immunity and viral diseases are recognized as acquired pathologies.

The classification of congenital and acquired skin diseases is diverse. Each type of skin growth demonstrates its own shape, color, structural features and signs of occurrence.

Neurofibroma

The cell that forms the nerve sheaths becomes the foundation for the growth of neurofibroma. The formation looks like a bump, hard to the touch, reaching three centimeters in diameter.

Neurofibroma is single and multiple. Multiple lesions are called neurofibromatosis and are considered the consequences of a genetic disorder that is inherited. Isolated pathologies rarely transform into malignant tumors, but bring tangible discomfort and pain to the owner. For the cutaneous tubercle, abundant pigmentation is characteristic - more often the tumor is brown, red or dark Brown color... Neurofibroma is located in the subcutaneous tissue of the epidermis.

The disease is characterized by the absence of symptoms at the initial stage of development. Reaching an impressive size, the tumor presses on the nerve endings, and the patient experiences pain. Localization sites: on the face, on the skin of the back, abdominal cavity, arms, on the leg. The first symptoms of neurofibroma are brown or red spots in various areas. human body... Neurofibroma can be cured with conservative therapy or surgery.

Fibroma

Connective tissue is the main component of fibroids. The tumor has a dense consistency, hard to the touch and is characterized by a light pink tint. This neoplasia reaches a maximum of three centimeters and occurs mainly in women who have reached the age of twenty.

There are known soft and hard types of fibroids. A hard skin build-up forms near the top layers of the skin. Soft fibroma is a flexible and soft-touch sac that appears on the neck, chest, armpits and inguinal folds in women who have reached adulthood. Often, a black or gray fibroma appears on the human body, showing smooth surface... Doctors recommend removing fibroids: there remains a risk of metastasis and transformation of pathology into fibrosarcoma, even in favorable conditions. Regular physical and chemical damage to the tumor provokes rapid growth and the occurrence of skin cancer.

Fibroids can be cured using traditional surgical removal with a scalpel, laser, electrocoagulation and radio wave method. Laser and radio wave methods exclude further recurrence of pathology and give favorable forecasts.

Lipoma

A neoplasm that forms from adipose tissue and is localized in the layer of connective tissue is called a lipoma or wen. Reaching a large size, the lipoma grows into nearby tissues and reaches the bone surface. Often, the tumor spreads to nearby muscles and blood vessels. Lipoma has round shape and soft to the touch. The human body can be affected by both single and multiple wen. They appear in any part of the body where there is a fatty layer, which is a favorable environment for the development of this skin disease. Localization sites can be different: wen affects the face, neck, back, upper and lower limbs, the region of the head, eyelids and mouth.

The onset of the disease does not depend on gender, body weight or heredity. Pathology appears in men and women, in children. Fats do not pose a particular danger to human life, but sometimes transformation into liposarcoma is noted. To avoid unwanted transformation, doctors recommend removing the neoplasm in the early stages of development. This tactic will also help to avoid a cosmetic defect at the site of the operation. Methods of treatment and removal of a wen include surgical intervention using a scalpel, laser method, radio wave and puncture-aspiration principles of pathology elimination.

Atheroma

Blockage of the ducts of the sebaceous glands provokes the appearance of a residual cyst - atheroma. This tumor consists of the products of the production of the sebaceous glands, which are in the form of an odorless curd mass. On palpation, a dense consistency and clear contours of pathology are noted.

There are single and multiple atheromas. The phenomenon of multiple atheromas is called atheromatosis. Superficial atheromas mainly occur, the localization of which can be different: on the back, head, neck, face, in the thigh, groin, lower and upper limbs of a person. The factors of occurrence involve non-compliance with hygiene rules, trauma to hair follicles, metabolic diseases and unprofessional depilation.

With regular physical and chemical exposure, atheroma turns into an inflammatory and edematous state and acquires a red tint. If an infection enters the tumor cavity, there is an accumulation of pus and an independent eruption of a greasy consistency.

Dermatologists and oncologists advise removing atheroma that has reached a small size, since there is a risk of transformation of pathology into liposarcoma. The malignant variant of atheroma is characterized by rapid growth, compression of the surrounding vessels, nerve endings and nearby tissues. Liposarcoma is a danger to human life, as it provokes anemia, vascular blockage, intoxication syndrome and metastasis to the internal organs of a person.

Lymphangioma

This type of tumor is congenital and occurs as a result of pathological changes in the lymphatic vessels. In rare cases, the pathology is acquired in nature. A congenital neoplasm is formed as a result of dysfunction of the outflow of lymphatic vessels, which provokes changes in the structure of the vessel membrane and the appearance of a tumor-like outgrowth. The acquired form of the disease appears as a result of infectious lesions of the human skin.

Pathology looks like a growth of blue color towering over the skin. On palpation, a dense consistency and clear boundaries of pathology are noted. Sizes range from one to five millimeters. Children under the age of three are at risk of developing education. In the process of development, there is a slow growth of education with intermittent periods, when the growth is rapidly increasing in size.

When a lymphangioma occurs, only surgical intervention is used, since the growth often puts pressure on such vital organs as the larynx, lungs, trachea. Modern methods of neoplasm elimination are sclerosed injections into the growth cavity, cauterization with diathermocoagulation, electrocoagulation and freezing of the growth with cryodestruction.

Wart and papilloma

Infectious infection of the skin and mucous membranes provokes the emergence of the papilloma virus, which manifests itself in the form of warts on various areas of the human body. The growth has distinctive features: multiple and single nodules of various shapes, brown, flesh-colored or light pink, reaching several centimeters in diameter.

Skin growths have different habitats: on the face, neck, groin, genitals, on the back and abdominal cavity of a person. Localization of papillomas in the area internal organs... Warts and papillomas appear as a result of nervous tension, frequent stress, autonomic disorders and decreased immunity. Skin disease is sexually transmitted and as a result of the general use of hygiene products such as washcloths, towels, and hair removal items.

Warts rarely metastasize to cancer and do not pose a threat to human health.

Getting rid of papilloma involves complex therapy, which includes strengthening the immune system, observing proper nutrition, the introduction of physical activity, reception medications and removing skin growth for pain or discomfort. It is possible to eliminate papilloma with the help of laser coagulation, freezing using the method of cryodestruction and electrocoagulation.

Nevus and birthmark

The specified neoplasm manifests itself in the form of excessive pigmentation on the skin. The shape, size and color are varied. The nevus can reach several tens of centimeters in diameter. The accumulation of pigment cells in the nevus is congenital and acquired. Also distinguish between benign and malignant dark spots... The first category is characterized by symmetrical, clear forms, the same color shade and sizes, reaching five to six millimeters. Metastatic skin pathologies have uneven and asymmetrical edges, a multi-colored pigmented surface and dimensions of more than six millimeters.

The factors that provoke the occurrence of congenital pigmentation include the effect of toxic compounds and electromagnetic radiation on the fetus in the womb, diseases of the internal organs of the lower pelvis, genetic predisposition and the occurrence of pathologies during pregnancy. The appearance of acquired moles is influenced by hormonal imbalances in adolescence, mechanical damage to the skin, oral contraceptives, harmful ultraviolet radiation and infectious diseases of the skin. A large number of nevi are observed in men and women who have reached the age of twenty-five.

Hemangioma

The described type of skin tumor affects the walls of blood vessels and forms in the subcutaneous layer of the body. Hemangioma rises above the surface of the skin and is not subject to pigmentation. The pathology is characterized by rapid spontaneous growth and a decrease in volumes under pressure. Mostly pathology occurs in children during the first years of life. The location of hemangioma can be different, but it mainly appears in the head and neck area. Cases of hemangioma of internal organs have been recorded. There are a number of types of skin pathology:

• With cavernous hemangioma, there is a deep location of the pathology in the skin layers of the human body. The formation has a knot shape and a blue tint. It is diagnosed immediately after the birth of the child.
• With capillary hemangioma, the occurrence of pathological changes in the epithelial layer was recorded, covering large areas of the skin and having a red or blue color.
• With combined pathology, the simultaneous appearance of a tricky and capillary hemangioma is observed.
• The mixed form of skin disease involves the process of involvement of the vascular membranes and connective tissues.

The disease appears as a result of hormonal characteristics of the fetus, infectious diseases of a pregnant woman at the initial stage and admission drugs while carrying a child.

Inflammatory processes of hemangioma cause complications such as open bleeding, which can be restored only with the help of surgery. When localized near a vital organ and a rapid increase in size, the tumor can interfere with the functioning of nearby organs and tissues and, thereby, worsen the patient's quality of life. To remove this skin defect, a sclerosing method is used, which causes hemangioma necrosis, cryodestruction, coagulation and traditional surgical intervention.

Keratoma

The basis of this skin tumor is keratinocytes, which form the stratum corneum of the skin. Dead cells transform into a growth, which is a spot or a nodule covered with a crust. Keratoma has various localization sites and most often occurs on the back, head, face, in the region of the lower and upper extremities. This type of skin pathology requires urgent treatment, since the keratinous cells that form the keratoma are similar to the cells of malignant tumors.

Single and multiple keratomas are distinguished. The second type of pathology occurs extremely rarely and there are a maximum of three skin nodes. The formation of multiple neoplasms on one area of ​​the body indicates the danger of skin cancer. The causes of education include pathological changes in the functioning of cells, hormonal disruption, harmful ultraviolet radiation, genetic predisposition and vitamin deficiency. The following types of keratomas are determined:

• With solar neoplasm, the formation of flaky spots, reaching several centimeters in diameter, is observed. The build-up does not cause discomfort or pain to the patient. Common sites of tumor localization: hand, foot, face and trunk.
• A horny neoplasm is formed in the form of a light brown or gray spot protruding above the human skin. The growth significantly protrudes above the surface of the skin and flakes off profusely. Common sites include the eyelids, forehead, lips, cheeks, nose, and mucous membranes.

• With senile keratoma, dense light brown spots reaching several centimeters in diameter. In the process of growth of the build-up, multiple layers are formed, cracking gradually. This type of keratoma grows slowly and is localized mainly in the head, back, chest and in parts of the body with rich hair.
• The follicular formation is a light pink and flesh-colored nodule that reaches two centimeters in diameter. The surface of the keratoma is covered with tubercles and rises above the skin of the body. Mostly this tumor appears on the lower limbs, lips, cheeks, nasolabial folds and palms.

If the neoplasm does not pose a risk of transition to a cancerous tumor and does not reach a large size, doctors recommend using medical and non-traditional methods of treatment. At the slightest suspicion of the transformation of a skin growth into a cancerous tumor, experts recommend removing the tumor. Keratoma can be eliminated using cryodestruction, radio wave method, laser, electrocoagulation and traditional surgical intervention.

Dermatofibroma

This type of neoplasm occurs as a result of capillary changes and consists of connective tissue. The tumor is characterized by the absence of pain and slow development. The formation is a rounded deep-lying node protruding several millimeters above the surface of the skin. Mostly the growth occurs in young women who have reached the age of thirty.

Do benign tumors hide the danger?

A benign neoplasm can transform into an oncological disease. He is engaged in diagnostics, study and prevention medical science dermatovenerology and danger can only be determined by a dermatologist or oncologist.

If the education is life-threatening, the doctor prescribes a radical removal. Further therapeutic treatment or complete removal is determined by benign and malignant signs of pathology. Scientists have proven that the most dangerous are birthmarks and nevi of a congenital nature, therefore dermatologists recommend removing neoplasms immediately. Skin pathological changes are often the cause of discomfort and painful sensations, which becomes an additional reason for the elimination of the tumor.

- benign or malignant tumor lesions of the skin as a result of pathological proliferation of tissue cells. Benign neoplasms include warts, moles, papillomas, lipomas, angiomas, adenomas, etc. Malignant ones - melanoma, sarcoma, epithelioma. A special group is made up of precancerous skin tumors: leukoplakia, cutaneous horn, senile keratoma, etc. Most of the skin neoplasms should be removed, since in case of injury or insolation, there is a high probability of their malignant degeneration.

General information

Skin neoplasms is a pathological growth of the dermis, in which the size of cells or their number increases; pathologically altered cells of the dermis form into a limited tumor. The number of new cells in a healthy body is equal to the number of dead cells, but when exposed to unfavorable factors, uncontrolled cell multiplication begins, cells divide before they reach maturity, as a result of which they are unable to perform their original functions. With malignant neoplasms of the skin, it is sometimes very difficult to differentiate from which layer of the dermis the tumor originated.

There are a lot of factors that can trigger the process of uncontrolled cell division, but the main predisposing factor for skin neoplasms is frequent skin injuries, as a result of which the cells have to regenerate quite actively and, as a result, control over division is lost. All types of radiation, including X-ray and solar radiation, provoke skin neoplasms. Hereditary predisposition and fair skin with an abundance of moles in combination with other risk factors almost always lead to benign skin neoplasms, which can later become malignant and transform into a cancerous tumor.

Despite the fact that benign skin neoplasms do not directly harm the patient's life, they, being huge in size, can disrupt the normal functioning of various organs, squeezing nerve endings - cause pain, and squeezing blood vessels - disrupt blood circulation in a specific part of the body.

Constant exposure to the skin of aggressive substances, skin infections of a bacterial and viral nature, as well as chronic skin diseases such as eczema, increase the likelihood of skin neoplasms. Skin neoplasms resulting from metastases of cancer cells from other organs and skin neoplasms in individuals who are not at risk are rarely diagnosed. All skin neoplasms are divided into three groups: benign skin neoplasms, precancerous skin conditions, and malignant neoplasms.

Benign skin neoplasms

The cells of benign skin neoplasms, despite the loss of control over division, can be differentiated; they also retain their original functions to a greater extent. Such tumors grow slowly, squeeze nearby tissues, but never droop into them.

Moles and nevi are limited hyperpigmented areas of the skin due to uneven accumulation of melanocytes, most of them are acquired neoplasms on the skin due to excessive exposure to the open rays of the sun. About half of malignant melanomas develop from melantocytes in moles and birthmarks. Therefore, if the number of moles and their size increases, the intensity of the color increases, then it is necessary to consult an oncodermatologist or dermatologist.

Precancerous neoplasms of the skin

Pigmented xeroderma, the pathogenesis of which is the increased sensitivity of the skin to various radiation energy, a congenital disease, due to disturbances in the enzyme system, the dermis loses its regenerative properties. This pathology can be suspected by the large number of freckles in children of the first year of life on the areas of the skin that are most often exposed to sun exposure. Freckles quickly transform into warty growths. Dispensary observation of children with a genetic predisposition and constant protection of the skin from solar radiation can reduce the likelihood of cancerous skin growths. With such a skin neoplasm as pigmented xeroderma, the prognosis is poor, since in almost all cases, cell and squamous cell carcinoma develops. Mortality in the age group under 20 is very high.

Precancerous neoplasms of the skin of old age

Bowen's disease or intraepidermal cancer is clinically manifested by neoplasms on the skin of a maculo-nodular nature, in the form of papules and plaques, which merge to form extensive surfaces covered with papillomatous outgrowths. The incidence is high among people of mature and old age of both sexes. The predisposing factors are the presence of warts caused by the human papillomavirus; due to the pronounced polymorphism of the cells of this neoplasm of the skin, Bowen's disease ends in undifferentiated cancer with the development of metastases in other organs and tissues.

Keir's disease occurs in the elderly; clinically, this skin neoplasm looks like a bright red velvety knot on the genitals, the course of the disease is long, over time, the knot can ulcerate and become covered with papillomatous outgrowths. Such skin neoplasms are usually painless, but due to their localization, they are often injured, which causes bleeding and pain. Unlike Bowen's disease, this skin neoplasm has a benign course and is less malignant.

Senile keratoma is a neoplasm on the skin from its epithelial layers, which occurs in elderly people. Initial manifestations look like limited areas of solitary or multiple hyperkeratosis, which later become dense round plaques up to one and a half centimeters in diameter and eventually become covered with dense crusts. Such neoplasms of the skin are localized mainly in open areas, are characterized by slow growth and, in very rare cases, become malignant.

A skin neoplasm such as a cutaneous horn is found in elderly people and develops in open areas, mainly in places subject to frequent friction and squeezing. The primary cutaneous horn occurs on unchanged skin, while the secondary is preceded by various skin neoplasms, tuberculosis, lupus erythematosus and actinic keratosis. After formation, an adult tumor looks like a cone-shaped horny formation, the length of which is several times the diameter of the tumor base. It is localized on the skin, the red border of the lips, the course of the tumor is long, malignancy occurs quite often.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin account for 7-10% of all malignant tumors. It affects people of both sexes, but people of mature age are more susceptible. They differ from benign tumors in that the cells of the dermis are difficult to differentiate already at the initial stages of the disease, they do not perform their functions, they are able to infect nearby organs and tissues and metastasize along the blood and lymphatic vessels, causing tumors throughout the body.

Melanoma is the most malignant of all skin neoplasms, the presence of congenital and acquired age spots increases the risk of melanoma, as it arises from melantocytes - pigment cells of the skin. Middle-aged and old women with blond hair and blue eyes are most susceptible to melanoma. A neoplasm on the skin is localized mainly on the lower and upper extremities, the pathogenesis of malignancy of moles and age spots is not fully understood, but their trauma, attempts to remove moles and spots with aggressive chemicals, cuts and insolation contribute to malignancy.

The main symptoms that indicate the malignancy of such neoplasms on the skin as age spots and moles are changes in the pigmentation of the nevus, a sharp increase in size, frequent bleeding and ulceration. That is, any previously nonspecific manifestations of a mole speak of its degeneration. And, despite its small size, the tumor quickly spreads to neighboring areas in the form of satellite nodules and metastasizes first to regional lymph nodes, and then to internal organs. Trauma can lead to premature degeneration into cancer, since even a biopsy for cytological examination is performed in the presence of erosions and ulcers, so as not to activate the oncological process.

Epitheliomas call all skin neoplasms from epithelial cells and are diagnosed in 50-60% of all skin cancers. Epitheliomas occur in areas not affected by other skin neoplasms. Initially, a small nodule of pinkish-yellow shades is observed, which grows over the years, but its size is not significant - up to 1-1.5 cm in diameter, so it remains unnoticed. The activation of the process is indicated by the presence of a yellowish-gray crust, which eventually covers the epithelioma. A roller around the neoplasm on the skin, consisting of cartilaginous seals with a shiny sheen, is an unfavorable diagnostic sign. In the future, ulceration and bleeding are observed, the tumor quickly metastasizes to regional lymph nodes and other organs.

Kaposi's sarcoma or angioreticulosis is more common in AIDS patients, but the classic form of sarcoma and skin neoplasms in immunocompromised patients are clinically and histologically identical. Men are more prone to this type of skin cancer; Kaposi's sarcoma is localized mainly on the lower extremities. Initially, purple, less often purple spots appear without clear outlines, later on this background there appear dense rounded nodules of a bluish-brown color with a diameter of up to 2 cm.The nodules are prone to fusion and ulceration, in patients with HIV infection, the disease becomes aggressive, sometimes with lightning lesions lymph nodes and metastasis throughout the body.

Poorly differentiated forms of skin cancer

Despite their not big sizes Such neoplasms of the skin are extremely dangerous, the cells lose their ability to keratinization and pronounced cellular atypism is observed. Such oncological diseases of the skin are manifested by minor changes, usually the tumor is no more than a pea in size, but the more atypism is expressed, and the inability to differentiate the cell type, the worse the prognosis for these skin neoplasms. Endophytic tumor growth leads to invasion into blood vessels and to bleeding, cancer cells disseminate through the blood vessels throughout the body, causing numerous metastases. Typically, these forms of cancer are fatal from cachexia, bleeding or autointoxication several years after the diagnosis.

Diagnostics of skin neoplasms

Self-diagnosis and regular dispensary examinations are of great importance in early diagnosis. The doctor's attentiveness during a visual examination allows you to diagnose pathological conditions and skin neoplasms and refer the patient for further examination.

Attentiveness to your health and to the health of your loved ones makes it possible to notice changes in moles, pigmentation and birthmarks in time. And, if skin changes occur without objective reasons, then you should be examined by a dermatologist or oncodermatologist, where, on the basis of visual examination, histological studies and studies of the general condition of the body, the tumor-like nature of skin neoplasms will be confirmed or excluded.

Treatment and prevention

There is no specific prophylaxis of cancer; preventive measures include the removal of moles and the removal of warts at the initial stage of their occurrence, especially if there are many moles. Persons with a genetic predisposition to oncological diseases should avoid sun exposure, approach the place of choice of a workplace more carefully and avoid contact with carcinogenic substances, excluding foods that can provoke an oncological process from the diet can significantly reduce the likelihood of oncological diseases.

Treatment of skin neoplasms most often consists in removing the affected area with partial excision of healthy tissue. Removal with a laser gives a lower percentage of relapses, since, in addition to removal, the wound surface is cauterized and does not allow further dissemination of tumor cells. Electrocoagulation and cryodestruction of benign skin neoplasms can be used, as well as a radio wave method of removal.

In the event that skin neoplasms are in the stage of inoperable cancer, radiation and chemotherapy are used. But if the neoplasm is initially malignant, the prognosis is always unfavorable, since the tumor, metastasizing, causes deep lesions of the internal organs, although the manifestations on the skin may be insignificant. Probability lethal outcome quite high, patients die from autointoxication, massive internal bleeding, multiple organ failure and cachexia.

If the skin neoplasm has a benign course or a precancerous condition, then timely surgical intervention almost completely eliminates the possibility of relapses and corrects cosmetic defects in appearance.

It's no secret that the skin includes three layers (epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous fat), the main task of which is to protect us from the harmful effects of our environment. Also, the skin is involved in respiration, thermoregulation, metabolic and many other processes. And such an important organ of our body can be affected by neoplasms (neoplasias) at any of the levels.

Neoplasms on the skin are a process of abnormal cell division, while the cells are not mature, which means they are no longer able to perform their functions. This can happen for many reasons, but the most common is skin injury, as a result of which the cells are forced to renew themselves too actively. And this, in turn, leads to uncontrolled division. And most often these injuries are associated with a burn.

If you find any neoplasm, the best solution would be to contact a specialist who will order you an examination to determine whether it is dangerous or not. If the neoplasm is benign, then most experts recommend removal in order to reduce the risks of damage. Since any damage, in turn, can lead to the transformation of the tumor from benign to malignant.

Types of skin neoplasms

If any new tumor appears on the surface of the skin, do not under any circumstances self-medicate. You may not only not get rid of neoplasias, but also make yourself worse.

Benign neoplasms

This type of tumor is a nodule that has grown from connective or fibrous tissue. According to external signs, it is a formation of pink or flesh-colored, which has clear outlines. The fibroma does not cause discomfort or pain, and it also grows slowly. Most often it affects the soft tissues of the limbs or trunk. And they are formed in people of any age and gender. Almost never degenerates into malignant neoplasia

The reasons for the appearance of fibroids are not fully understood, but the most obvious pattern is genetic inheritance.

This type of tumor does not pose a threat to human health and life, so their treatment is not necessary. Only those fibroids that are subject to frequent friction or spoil the appearance of a person are subject to removal. It is removed surgically under local anesthesia using a laser. If the fibroma has reached a large size, then surgical excision is performed.

Papilloma

It is a neoplasia that looks like a growth on the skin. The size can reach from 1 to 7 mm, but sometimes it can reach up to 2 cm. Localized on the neck, armpits, face, abdomen, back, oral mucosa, larynx, trachea.

Papillomas appear on the skin due to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. There are two strains of this virus: oncogenic and non-oncogenic. If an oncogenic strain of this virus is found in the blood of a person, then there is a high probability of the transformation of the formation into a malignant one. You can become infected with this virus through sexual (70% probability) and household contacts. For women, infection with an oncogenic HPV strain is also fraught with the development of cervical cancer.

Papilloma treatment medicines not possible, just by deleting. However, the risk of re-proliferation of papillomas increases if a person has a weakened immune system or an exhausting lifestyle.

Obligatory to remove are those papillomas that are localized in traumatic places. The signal to consult a specialist is the unexpected appearance or strong proliferation of papilloma.

Lipoma (wen)

It is a benign tumor consisting of mature fat cells (hence the name wen). Most often it is subcutaneous and only in 2% of cases it is located in deep soft tissues. Lipoma is a painless formation, soft to the touch and mobile relative to the surface of the skin. Most often, patients are disturbed due to big size or for cosmetic reasons.

The causes of lipoma are still unknown. However, there is an opinion that adipose tissue occurs due to a lack of enzyme proteins in the body. And they can also occur due to clogging with slags.

Treatment is performed only surgically. If the lipoma has reached a large size, then removal is performed under general anesthesia. Surgeries almost always contribute to the patient's complete recovery.

If the tumor does not cause any discomfort and there is no pronounced cosmetic defect, then removal is not necessary. But it should be remembered that folk remedies for wen are useless.

Moles and birthmarks

These are formations on the skin, which can be either congenital or acquired. Also, moles can be of different colors: brown, red, black, etc. They are formed due to the fact that cells skin overflow with pigment and accumulate in one place. They can form on all parts of the human body.

Most moles are completely harmless.

To reduce sensitivity and to eliminate the negative effects of solar radiation, it is recommended to cover moles with a bandage or plaster.

However, there is a possibility that a mole can degenerate into melanoma (skin cancer) under the influence of negative factors, such as trauma, ultraviolet radiation, etc. Therefore, if a mole is located in a traumatic place, it is best to remove it with a laser, liquid nitrogen, electric current or surgically.

Before removing a mole, be sure to consult with a specialist.

This is a type of tumor that forms due to a blockage of the sebaceous glands. It is a liquid-filled capsule under the skin. A distinctive feature is the odor emanating from neoplasia. But it may not be felt if a person with this type of neoplasm often takes a shower.

Atheroma occurs most often on parts of the body where there is hair.

There are times when an infection enters the capsule and the atheroma begins to become inflamed. In addition to subcutaneous fat, pus also appears in its capsule. Most often, such a capsule bursts itself and no longer requires treatment.

The reasons for the appearance can be different: internal and external. For example, atheroma can appear on the earlobe due to careless ear piercing. There may also be a lack of personal hygiene. And the internal one can be attributed to the violation of metabolic processes.

In case of internal blockage of the sebaceous glands, it is necessary to consult a specialist and undergo the necessary treatment in order to reduce the risks of atheroma appearing again.

Treatment most often involves surgical excision of the capsule. If there is a hole in the atheroma through which the infection can penetrate (or has already penetrated), then in such cases the contents are first removed, the inflammation is removed, and then the atheroma capsule is excised.

Keratoacanthoma

Keratoacanthoma is a benign neoplasia that tends to become malignant (in 6% of patients it degenerates into skin cancer). Usually localized on the face, limbs and trunk. The tumor grows rapidly, but it can disappear spontaneously, leaving behind scars.

Due to the risk of degeneration into a malignant tumor, the tumor requires close observation, and in some cases there are indications for removal.

The reasons for the appearance are not fully known, however, approximately 50% of patients have human papillomavirus in their blood. Also, the risk of a tumor increases in people who smoke and in people in contact with chemical carcinogens (tar, soot, polycyclic hydrocarbons).

Hemangioma is a benign tumor that consists of vascular tissue cells. It is most often diagnosed in newborn babies. In adults, hemangioma rarely appears, reaches a couple of centimeters and does not cause any discomfort. As a rule, the disease goes away on its own in children aged 5-10 years.

The reasons are not known, but it is believed that the tumor occurs in those children whose mother had acute respiratory infections or sore throat during pregnancy. And the causes of occurrence in adults are not known at all.

The biggest danger is damage to the skin, and hence the introduction of infection and suppuration.

As a rule, hemangioma cannot be treated. The only way to get rid of it is surgery. Mandatory for removal are hemangiomas located on the face or rapidly growing.

Precancerous neoplasms

These formations on the skin, which over time or under certain conditions, can degenerate into malignant ones.

Pigmented xeroderma

It develops with increased sensitivity of the skin to solar radiation, due to which the skin loses its ability to regenerate. The disease manifests itself at the age of 2-3 years and is constantly progressing. This disease can be recognized by a large number of freckles, which transform into warty growths. This disease is congenital. In order to reduce the risk of developing cancerous neoplasms, the skin should be constantly protected from solar radiation and it is necessary to ensure dispensary observation oncologist, dermatologist, and, if necessary, an ophthalmologist and neuropathologist.

The statistics are not encouraging: 2/3 of patients with xeroderma die before reaching the age of 15.

Pre-cancerous growths of old skin

This type of neoplasm refers mainly to elderly people, but one should not exclude the possibility of their formation at an earlier age.

Senile keratoma

Is it single or multiple benign education on the skin prone to malignancy. It is a rounded plaque with layers of keratinized skin. Possible malignant transformation with the development of skin cancer. Degeneration of a tumor into a malignant one in 9-15% of cases.

Most often occurs in elderly people who have reached 50 years of age. Some argue that this type of tumor is more common in men.

Keratoma treatment is possible different ways: electrocoagulation, laser removal, liquid nitrogen, radio wave removal and surgical (if malignant transformation is suspected or if large).

Keir's disease

It is an intraepithelial non-invasive cancer of the mucous membranes of the genital organs. Sometimes (in 30% of cases) it can degenerate into squamous cell skin cancer. Keir's disease is a predominantly male disease.

It is diagnosed mainly in elderly and middle-aged men who have not undergone circumcision of the foreskin of the penis. Main role the appearance of the disease is played by carcinogenic factors, poor personal hygiene, viruses and genital trauma.

Treatment is performed surgically. For invasive tumor growth, chemotherapy is given.

Bowen's disease

This tumor is an intraepidermal neoplasm that can degenerate into skin cancer. It is a bright red plaque with uneven contours and pronounced peeling.

The most important threat of this disease is its transformation into squamous cell skin cancer.

With small foci the best treatment is the removal of the tumor with a surgical method. If removal is not possible, then X-ray therapy is used.

Cutaneous (senile) horn

This disease is very rare in older people. It belongs to rare dermatological diseases. By outward appearance it really resembles a horn, has a dense structure and a cylindrical shape. Doesn't hurt. Sometimes it is a harbinger of skin cancer (cutaneous horn malignancy is 5%). Most often, the cutaneous horn occurs on the surface of the face, neck, scalp and eyelids.

The reason is metabolic disorders, which leads to accelerated proliferation of epidermal cells.

The most effective method of its treatment is removal by means of electric current, laser, radio wave method, surgical method and cryodestruction with liquid nitrogen.

When removing a benign cutaneous horn, preventive measures are required to avoid relapse of the disease.

You should not try to remove the horn yourself, as this can cause it to transform into a malignant tumor.

Malignant neoplasms of the skin

These are tumors whose cells have lost the ability to perform their own functions at the early stages of development. Often they metastasize and form tumors over the entire surface of the body's skin.

The main sign that a mole has changed from a benign one to a malignant one is its modification. Changes in pigmentation, rapid size change, bleeding, etc.

It is strictly forbidden to injure such moles. If such a tumor is present on the body, you should immediately consult a specialist

Melanoma

It is a malignant tumor that develops from cells that produce melanin. This disease is very rarely treatable and deaths in melanoma are very high.

The reasons for the appearance are altered cell DNA, which was provoked by such factors as: light skin; an abundance of moles on the skin; excessive sun exposure; heredity.

Prevention of melanoma is by limiting sun exposure and using special sunscreens.

Melanoma treatment is mainly surgical. In the early stages, the tumor is removed together with the site healthy skin around. Additionally, radiation and chemotherapy are performed.

Basalioma

Malignant tumor formed from cells of the epidermis. This tumor practically does not metastasize. It occurs mainly in people who have reached the age of 40. The main factor contributing to the appearance of basal cell carcinoma is prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, contact with toxic substances and carcinogens, and constant injury to the skin.

Despite the fact that basal cell carcinoma is a type of cancer, it has a benign course. The biggest complication is that as it grows, it touches and destroys the tissues around it. Death occurs when the tumor affects the bones, ears, eyes, lining of the brain, etc.

The most common treatment is surgical removal. It is also removed with liquid nitrogen or a laser. They also carry out radiation or chemotherapy.

Kaposi's sarcoma (angioendothelioma of the skin)

This type of malignant tumor is multiple skin lesions that develop from the endothelium of the lymphatic and blood vessels passing through it. This type of tumor develops mainly (40-60%) in people with HIV, most often in men.

The reasons for the development of Kaposi's sarcoma are not fully known.

The main treatment for this disease is highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). This is a combination of drugs that interferes with the reproductive cycle of HIV. If the patient's immunity is high, then Kaposi's sarcoma may be borderline in nature. As soon as immunity decreases, the tumor begins to grow again. The same type of treatment is surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy.

Forecast and prevention of skin neoplasms

Nowadays, with modern methods of treating benign and precancerous tumors, the prognosis is very positive - complete cure, no recurrence and degeneration into malignant tumors. In malignant tumors, the prognosis is not so favorable. For the possibility of a complete cure, certain conditions are necessary, and if these conditions exist, then it will take a lot of effort.

At the moment, there are no uniform measures for anyone and everyone, observing which you will be safe. However, there are a number of measures that can help reduce the risk of any tumors forming on the skin's surface:

• Keep an eye on the condition of your skin. Do not lose sight of the slightest change or the emergence of something new. If you find a new tumor that was not there before, contact your oncologist or dermatologist and follow their recommendations.
• Do not self-medicate. Remove folk remedies only after consulting a doctor, making sure that the method you want to resort to is safe for you. And also the doctor must confirm the good quality of the neoplasm.
• Avoid overexposure to sunlight and ultraviolet radiation on your skin. Avoid sunburn using a special cream with a protection factor of at least 30. Especially if your skin has increased pigmentation, an abundance of moles, or just very light skin.
• Avoid skin contact with carcinogenic and chemically active substances.
• Avoid casual sex to minimize the risk of contracting HPV, HIV, and other sexually transmitted viruses.
• Reduce your intake of foods that can trigger the onset of cancer. These products include: smoked meats, animal fats, sausages and other meat products with a large amount of food stabilizers.

Remember, do not neglect your own health. It is better to think in advance about the condition of your skin and take all the necessary measures in order to minimize the risks of any neoplasm appearing on the surface of your skin.

Neoplasms on human skin can have a different structure, but all of them are united by the same developmental mechanism - uncontrolled reproduction of cells that have not reached maturity, and, as a result, do not fully perform their functions.

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Distinctive features of benign neoplasms

Skin growths are also called neoplasias or tumors. Benign neoplasias have distinctive criteria by which the doctor differentiates them from malignant ones. These criteria include:

• slow growth;
• cellular elements do not spread outside the tumor;
• the neoplasm does not grow into adjacent tissues;
• the tumor grows evenly;
• as it grows, a benign tumor pushes back adjacent tissues and presses on them, as a result, a capsule is formed from them;
• benign neoplasias are atypical structures, but they do not tend to metastasize.

Important: these tumors are not dangerous, but it is worth pointing out that with constant exposure to certain external factors, they can degenerate into cancerous (not all and not always, but there is a risk, especially for nevi). The most common in practice are the following neoplastic benign formations:

• hemangioma;
• fibroma;
• birthmark (aka nevus);
• lipoma;
• lymphangioma;
• papilloma;
• atheroma;
• neurofibroma.

The indication for removal is usually their unsuccessful localization (face, head, places of constant contact with clothing), large sizes, disturbances that they cause in the work of other organs. Such tumors respond well to treatment, both surgical and hardware, only in some cases they can recur.

Benign skin neoplasms: classification

Benign neoplasias are divided into:

1. Acquired neoplasms.
2. Congenital tumors.

Acquired - neoplasms that arise on the skin as a result of such pathologies:

• papillomavirus (genital warts and);
• lowered (warts on the soles and palms, thorns);
• metabolic disorders (fibroids, hard and soft, such as nevi, xanthomas, keratomas).

Congenital - neoplasias, which include:

• birthmarks (nevi with an area of ​​more than 2 cm²);
• moles.

Typical locations of benign neoplasms

Very often, such neoplasias are located in the neck, groin, face, scalp, chest, and in the armpit. There are cases when moles are located in atypical places - in the nose, auricle, on the eyelid. In this case, the desire to get rid of them is more aesthetic in nature, because it becomes the cause of discomfort or a noticeable cosmetic defect.

Symptoms of a benign neoplasm

Benign type neoplasias contain cells that partially retain their original functions, so they do not penetrate into neighboring tissues. There are many varieties of them. This article will look at the most common benign growths.

Hemangioma is a tumor based on a vascular formation. It can be of several types, depending on which vessels are involved in the process: There are several types of this benign neoplasm:

If the hemangioma is located on the face or eyelid, radiation therapy is used to remove it, in other cases cryotherapy, sclerotherapy, hormone therapy are indicated. The operative method is used when the hemangioma is located very deeply.

Fibroma

It is a neoplasia that forms from connective tissue. Very often it is diagnosed at a young age, mainly in the female sex. It is characterized by small size - a maximum of 3 cm in diameter. The fibroma looks like a spherical nodule, which is deeply set in the skin, rises slightly above its surface. It can be of different colors: from gray to black. Its surface is usually smooth, sometimes there are warty formations on it, it grows slowly. Important: despite the fact that fibroma is a benign tumor, under favorable conditions there is a risk of its degeneration into an oncological form of fibrosarcoma. To remove it, use the operative, laser, radiosurgical method or electrocoagulation.

Moles and nevi

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They are both congenital and acquired. These neoplasms are a collection of cells that have an excessive amount of melanin pigment. They are characterized by a wide variety of shapes, textures, colors, etc. They are removed both because of a possible rebirth and because of their location in inconvenient places.

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This is a neoplasm that is formed from the fatty layer, therefore its second name is "wen". It is located in the thickness of the connective tissue under the skin. Often, the tumor penetrates deeply into the underlying tissues, right down to the bones, growing between the muscles and blood vessels. Typical locations for her are areas with a thin layer of fat: shoulders, hips, up the back, head. Lipoma is soft and mobile, painless on palpation. It is characterized by slow growth. It is harmless to health, but in very rare cases it can degenerate into liposarcoma. Obligatory removal is indicated in the presence of intensive tumor growth and squeezing of the surrounding tissues and organs. note: Doctors recommend removing the lipoma if it grows, and it is ideally better to do it while it is small. This will avoid a large postoperative scar. For small lipomas, puncture-aspiration, radio wave, laser treatment methods are used, which ensure the removal of a benign neoplasm and an excellent cosmetic result.

This tumor forms from the lymphatic vessels. Most often, it is congenital in nature, since it is formed even in the prenatal period, and it is found in children under 3 years of age. In appearance, lamphangioma is a cavity with thin walls, the dimensions of which range from 1 to 5 mm. This neoplasia grows slowly, but there are cases of its spasmodic growth, when the tumor rapidly increases in size and then its surgical removal is indicated. The surgical method of treating benign neoplasms is also used in the case of lymphangiomas, which are located near the larynx, trachea, and other vital organs.

Papillomas and warts

They can be in the form of a flat papilla or nodule, but in practice there are growths of different sizes, shapes and shades (from flesh to brown). The main cause of these tumors is the papilloma virus, which has many different strains. It is activated in the human body against the background of vegetative disorders, low immunity.

There are certain types of warts that can develop into cancerous forms, but most of them are still safe. Antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs are used for treatment, and any method from the use of acids to a surgical method is suitable for removal.

This is an epithelial cyst - a benign neoplasm sebaceous gland, which arises as a result of its blockage. The usual places of its localization: the skin of the groin, neck, head, back, that is, atheroma is located in areas where there is a high concentration of sebaceous glands. Outwardly, atheroma is distinguished by clear contours, it is quite dense, elastic on palpation, does not bring discomfort to the patient. If an infection joins, then suppuration of the tumor is possible, and it acquires a reddish tint, edema, pain, subfebrile condition appear. Atheroma in a state of inflammation can break through on its own, which is manifested by the release of purulent-sebaceous contents from it. Important: despite the fact that atheroma is benign, it can degenerate into liposarcoma - a malignant tumor. That is why it should be removed and only through the operative method.

It is a neoplasia that grows from the cells that make up the nerve sheaths. It is localized in the subcutaneous tissue or skin. Neurofibroma is a dense tubercle up to 3 cm in diameter. Outwardly, it is covered with epidermis, which is highly pigmented or depigmented. This tumor can be multiple in nature. This condition is called neurofibromatosis, and it is the result of a genetic malfunction and is inherited.

A single neurofibroma rarely degenerates into a cancerous tumor, but at the same time brings many problems to its owner, because it can cause various functional disorders, constant pain. It is important to treat this benign neoplasm with medication (retinoids), promptly or with the use of radiation therapy.

Skin neoplasms: when is there a danger?

The main danger of any benign neoplasm is its malignancy, that is, transformation into cancer or melanoma. This is not typical for all neoplasias, and only a specialist can determine which mole on the body is potentially dangerous and which is not. To prevent degeneration, it is imperative to remove the neoplasm, especially the one that has a real threat, according to the doctor. It has been clinically proven that the most dangerous in relation to possible degeneration are nevi - birthmarks and moles that have a convex shape and are on the body from birth. V in this case timely accurate diagnostics... First of all, dermatologists advise removing keratomas. Also, because of the often causing discomfort, warts, warts, papillomas, xanthomas are removed.

When is it worth removing a benign neoplasm?

There are cases when neoplasia should be removed regardless of its type. This rule is valid if:

• on a small area of ​​the skin there is an accumulation of about 20 moles, which is an increased risk of developing melanoma;
• it is located on places such as the neck, face, hands, because they are often exposed to ultraviolet radiation, which significantly increases the risk of rebirth;
• someone in the family had skin cancer, since the hereditary factor plays a very large role in this case;
• neoplasia is often traumatized.

When should you visit a dermatologist?

It is important not to postpone the visit to the doctor if the neoplasm on the skin:

• increased;
• hairs began to fall out from its surface;
• changed color;
• started to bleed;
• changed the consistency;
• decreased;
• changed the shape;
• its outline has become blurred;